Church in the Cotswolds GOLDEN Triangle | St Mary Magdalene Church

St Mary Magdalene Church | Duns Tew, Oxfordshire Experience the golden-hued serenity and architectural evolution of St Mary Magdalene. Located in the high country of North Oxfordshire, this church is a stunning example of how centuries of English history are layered within a single building. About this Location: St Mary Magdalene is built from the warm, honey-colored local ironstone that defines the beauty of the Duns Tew area. While the church has origins in the 12th century, much of its character comes from the 13th and 14th centuries, followed by a major Victorian restoration in 1861 by Sir George Gilbert Scott—one of England’s most prolific architects. The church is perhaps most famous for its dramatic history: in 1665, the medieval tower collapsed into the nave, requiring a massive reconstruction that gives the building its unique staggered silhouette today. Inside, the church retains a sense of light and height, featuring a fine 13th-century font and intricate stone detailing that highlights the craftsmanship of the Oxfordshire masons. Common Questions about St Mary Magdalene, Duns Tew: Q: What happened to the original church tower? A: In 1665, the original tower suffered a catastrophic collapse, falling directly into the church. The tower seen today was rebuilt shortly after the disaster, which is why it features a mix of styles compared to the older chancel. Q: Who was the architect behind the Victorian restoration? A: The church was restored by Sir George Gilbert Scott, the same architect responsible for the Albert Memorial and the Midland Grand Hotel at St Pancras in London. Q: Are there any unique medieval features inside? A: Yes, the church contains a beautiful 13th-century baptismal font and a rare, narrow "priest's door" in the chancel that dates back to the medieval period. Q: Is the church located near any other historic sites? A: The church sits directly adjacent to the historic Duns Tew Manor, and the entire village is a designated conservation area filled with 17th and 18th-century ironstone cottages. #StMaryMagdalene #DunsTew #Oxfordshire #Ironstone #SirGeorgeGilbertScott #EnglishChurches #HistoricEngland #Cotswolds #MedievalArchitecture #VillageHistory